| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Biology |
| Lesson Topic: outline how genetic diseases can be treated with gene therapy, using the examples severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and inherited eye diseases |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe the principle of gene therapy and differentiate between ex‑vivo and in‑vivo approaches.
- Explain how gene‑addition is used to treat X‑linked SCID and inherited retinal dystrophies.
- Compare the vectors and delivery methods used for SCID and eye‑disease therapies.
- Evaluate the ethical, safety and accessibility considerations of gene‑therapy treatments.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector and screen
- PowerPoint slides with diagrams of SCID and eye‑disease gene therapy
- Student handout summarising steps and key terms
- Whiteboard and markers
- Sample viral‑vector models (optional)
- Exit‑ticket cards
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Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: “Which genetic disorders have you heard of being treated with new technologies?” Connect this to prior learning about DNA mutations. State that by the end of the lesson students will be able to outline two gene‑therapy strategies and assess their broader implications.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5'): Students list known genetic diseases and any treatments they recall – checks prior knowledge.
- Mini‑lecture (10'): Overview of gene‑therapy concepts, ex‑vivo vs in‑vivo, and vector types.
- Case study – SCID (12'): Walk through the four‑step ex‑vivo process using slides; students label a flowchart.
- Case study – Inherited eye disease (12'): Explain AAV sub‑retinal injection steps; complete a worksheet matching steps to outcomes.
- Comparison activity (8'): In pairs fill a comparison table of SCID vs eye‑disease approaches and discuss ethical issues.
- Formative check (5'): Quick Kahoot quiz on key terminology and mechanisms.
- Exit ticket (3'): Write one benefit and one concern of gene therapy.
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Conclusion:
Summarise how gene‑addition can restore function in both immune and retinal cells, highlighting the different delivery methods. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign a short homework: read a recent news article on a gene‑therapy trial and write a paragraph linking it to today’s case studies.
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